On behalf of the Rainbow Reef crew and myself, we would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas (or whatever holiday you celebrate) and a Happy New Year.

We’ve had another great year of diving and making new friends, and of course we always have a great time with those old friends that return time and time again. The hurricanes decided once again to not come anywhere near us, we certainly hope that trend continues. We’ve also welcomed some new crew and interns and said goodbye to some other crew members who have moved on, and more than a few interns who have completed the program and moved on to lots of other places around the world.

We are also in the process of moving the Islamorada location to a new spot at the Pelican Cove Resort. It’s a great place to stay, and a great location for us to resume operations a little south of Key Largo. We started running trips there again yesterday and look forward to the new year. The Tropical Daze is about to go back into service after a long lay up period trying to get the engine rebuilt. It’s been a long road, but once we get the Coast Guard back on board for the inspection, she will be taking divers out to the reef once again.

Outside the world of the Keys and diving, we hope that some peace and stability comes to the world. We hope the troops in Iraq, Afghanistan, and around the world that defend our country, keep it free, and ultimately guarantee our way of life, can come home soon. I forget who said it, but freedom isn’t free, and we should not forget (no matter where you stand politically) the sacrifice these men and women make so that you are free enough to do whatever you want to do with your life. One thing I know I’ve said countless times this year: If you have your health and you live in a free country, you have everything, you have nothing to complain about and the rest is up to you. Think about that for a moment, realize how lucky you are, and let that lead you into next year.